In my last article, we explored how the state of flow can elevate mental and physical well-being. As we celebrate Mental Health Day, which I like to call Mind Well-being Day, I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to shine a light on the importance of our mind's well-being for ourselves and those around us. As mirror neuron theory suggests, happiness, anxiety, depression, negativity, etc., all replicate in our minds from people around us.
Let me begin by asking a question:
If you have a stomach ache, your mind quickly alerts you: "My stomach is hurting, so I can't perform." But the mind doesn't always acknowledge when something is wrong when it comes to mental well-being. Instead, it affects your behavior silently—reducing your functionality, making you resistant to change, and leaving you feeling down, aggressive, or even numb.
Mental health often goes unnoticed because the mind resists accepting its struggles. However, understanding and measuring your mind's well-being is crucial. Here are two key aspects to assess:
1. Functionality: Can you carry out daily tasks and manage responsibilities? If stress or mental health issues impact this, it's a sign that your mind's well-being might need attention.
2. Adaptability: How well do you cope with changes? Strong mind well-being helps you handle life's shifts with ease, while poor adaptability can make even small changes feel overwhelming.
Mind well-being affects everyone differently. Adults and children handle stress and changes in distinct ways, and their resilience varies depending on their environment and support system. In India, 1 in 7 people struggle with mental health issues, making it crucial to understand functionality and adaptability.
Understand Your Language of Stress: Recognize whether you freeze, flee, or fight in response to stress. This understanding helps manage and improve your mental well-being.
Stress Resilience Test: Gauge your resilience:
Low: Feel stuck or pushed back. When faced with an obstacle, you feel stuck or pushed back, making it difficult to recover.
Moderate: Manage stress but continue functioning.
High: Use challenges as growth opportunities.
To strengthen your mental health:
1. Write in a Journal: Express and accept your feelings.
2. Seek Professional Help: Consult a mental health professional.
3. Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
4. Practice Mindful Breathing: Use techniques like long exhalations and Aanapaan meditation.
5. Follow Professional Advice: Trust recommendations for medication if needed.
By integrating these practices, you can enhance your mental strength and lead a balanced, resilient life.
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